Meet the Next Fitness Star Judges

Meet the 4 Next Fitness Star Judges

Our expert panel explains how to spot a winner.

Meet the 4 Next Fitness Star JudgesOur expert panel explains how to spot a winner.

Last year, we launched our first ever Next Fitness Star competition—and happily crowned Stacy Clark as our first ever winner. Now, for year two, we've selected five incredibly talented, fit, and inspirational finalists. And here are the four judges who will be deciding which one of the superstar five gets to take home the title in 2014. Here, each judge explains what exactly they look for when picking out a Next Fitness Star winner and gives their own expert tip for workout success.

AMY ROBACHGood Morning America news anchor"I look for a trainer who is inspirational while providing the positive reinforcement I need to keep running, keep lifting, keep going… It’s all about motivation!"

Amy’s tip: Find a way to stay accountable to your goals! I had a fabulous trainer who would call me at different times of the day to remind me what I shouldn’t be eating or drinking. Some of his best advice that I still live by: "Eat your fruits, don’t drink them."

BROOKE BURKE
Host, actress, and designer for Caelum Lifestyle"I've always believed that women should uplift other women and push them to greatness. A great trainer needs to be someone who can inspire and work to get the very best out of you each and every workout... A great trainer knows how to get you excited."

Brooke’s tip: Find someone who helps you enjoy your workout and gets you excited. When you learn to embrace the burn, you’ll start to crave all the great benefits that come from a fantastic workout.

CHRIS POWELL
Host of ABC's Extreme Weight Lossandauthor of Choose More, Lose More for Life"I'll be looking for a trainer who is passionate, authentic, and compassionate, as well as experienced and knowledgeable, but not so cerebral that they lose connection with their clients... They must know and understand how to progress an individual toward their goals, but must also be able to communicate the path with them effectively and with enthusiasm. I will also be looking for trainers that gamify fitness, so that it is fun and enjoyable!"

Chris’ tip: Build a community of other trainers and clients, and plan regular events like group hikes, bowling, soccer games, etc.

MICHELE PROMAULAYKO
Editor-in-Chief of Women's Health"The star pick has to be someone who can captivate people's attention and motivate them to be an even better, stronger, fitter version of themselves. After credentials, I look for an enviable physique—a trainer is a walking advertisement for the effectiveness of their methods."

Michele's tip: "I'm a fan of prioritizing workouts, which is why I always do it first thing in the morning. That way, nothing derails you and you start the day in a good place."